How to Make Claire Saffitz Chocolate Chip Cookies?

claire saffitz chocolate chip cookies

Let me paint you a picture. It was one of those gray, drizzly afternoons when all you want to do is curl up with something warm and comforting. I opened my pantry and realized I had everything to bake cookies, but I didn’t want just any cookie. I wanted something that would wow me. Enter Claire Saffitz’s chocolate chip cookies—a recipe that promised perfection. I’d heard whispers of its greatness, and let me tell you, it lived up to the hype. If you’ve ever wondered how to make these iconic cookies or what sets them apart, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe, step by step.

How to Make Claire Saffitz Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ready to bake? Here’s your guide to creating cookies that are chewy, buttery, and loaded with chocolate. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that’ll be the star of your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need (and Why):

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cookie dough. For best results, measure it correctly—spoon it into the measuring cup, then level it off.
  • 1 tsp baking powder & 1/2 tsp baking soda: These leavening agents create the perfect rise and softness.
  • 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor. Don’t skip it!
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled: Melted butter leads to chewier cookies. Be sure it’s cooled slightly before mixing to avoid scrambling your eggs.
  • 1 1/4 cups packed light brown sugar & 1/2 cup granulated sugar: The brown sugar adds moisture and a caramel-like richness, while the granulated sugar lends a touch of crispness.
  • 2 large eggs: These bind the ingredients and add richness. Room-temperature eggs mix more easily.
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract: This adds a warm, aromatic note. Opt for pure vanilla for the best flavor.
  • 2 cups high-quality chocolate chunks or chips: Go for dark chocolate or high-quality chips to ensure gooey, melty pockets in every bite.
  • Flaky sea salt (for finishing): A pinch of this elevates the cookies, adding a burst of flavor with every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. This step ensures all the leavening agents are evenly distributed and prevents clumps.

2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until smooth and glossy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough cookies. Fold in the chocolate chunks or chips, ensuring even distribution.

4. Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better. Chilling enhances the flavor and ensures the cookies bake with the perfect texture. (Trust me, it’s worth the wait!)

5. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.

6. Shape and Bake

Scoop the dough into balls, roughly 2 tablespoons each, and place them on the baking sheets with plenty of space between. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each dough ball.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underbaked. They’ll firm up as they cool, giving you that perfect chewy center.

7. Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Pour yourself a glass of milk or brew a cup of coffee, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. These Claire Saffitz chocolate chip cookies are a revelation.

Tips for Success

Don’t Skip the Chill Time

Chilling the dough deepens the flavor and ensures the cookies bake with a perfect texture. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes makes a difference.

Invest in Good Chocolate

The quality of your chocolate matters. Splurge on high-quality chunks or chop up a good bar of dark chocolate. It’s what makes every bite heavenly.

Use a Cookie Scoop

This keeps your cookies uniform in size, ensuring even baking. Plus, it’s less messy!

Rotate Your Baking Sheets

Halfway through baking, rotate your baking sheets to account for any hot spots in your oven. This ensures even browning.

Storing Your Cookies

Room Temperature

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Adding a slice of bread to the container can help keep them soft.

Freezing Dough

If you’d rather bake cookies as needed, scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, pop them straight into the oven and add a minute or two to the baking time.

Freezing Baked Cookies

Wrap cooled cookies individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a freshly baked taste.

FAQs About Claire Saffitz Chocolate Chip Cookies

Can I Use Salted Butter Instead of Unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe by about half to balance the flavors.

Is Chilling the Dough Necessary?

While you can skip it in a pinch, chilling the dough is highly recommended. It enhances the flavor and texture, making a noticeable difference.

What If I Don’t Have Flaky Sea Salt?

Regular table salt works fine, though flaky salt adds a special touch. If you can, invest in some—it’s worth it!

Can I Customize the Chocolate?

Absolutely! Try mixing dark, milk, or even white chocolate for a unique flavor combination. You can also add nuts or dried fruit.

How Do I Know When the Cookies Are Done?

Look for golden edges and centers that are just slightly underbaked. They’ll continue to set as they cool.

Can I Make These Gluten-Free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour. The texture may vary slightly, but the results will still be delicious.

An Experience to Remember

Claire Saffitz chocolate chip cookies are more than just a recipe—they’re an experience. From the moment you mix the dough to that first bite of a warm, gooey cookie, these cookies bring joy to your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just yourself, these cookies are sure to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to the ultimate cookie experience. And if you’ve tried this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your tips, tweaks, or triumphs in the comments below.